By using cloud-based data services to fulfill persistent data storage needs for
containers, the major drawbacks of “data in the container” (lack of independent
scaling), Docker volumes (tied to specific machines), or creating “data contain-
ers” (limited flexibility) are avoided. By using a PaaS data store, the cloud pro-
vider manages the operational aspects of data protection and scalability, and
ensures containers can focus on application logic, presentation and user ser-
vice delivery. AWS’ Elastic File System, as an example, enables a shared, mount-
able, automatically scalable data environment well-suited for persisting various
types of con-
tainer data.
When used incorrectly,
containers can become
another bloated virtual
machine replacement with
little to no value add.
Containers can
be used as an
effective way to
package appli-
cations
for
rapid deploy-
ment, upgrades
and
lifecycle
management.
However, when
used incorrectly, containers can become another bloated virtual machine
replacement with little to no value-add. It is important that as part of a con-
tainer implementation strategy, the persistence of data and the movement of
data is put in the proper functional areas to facilitate scalability and opera-
tions. By leveraging PaaS services for communication and data stores, contain-
ers can be focused on the execution of business logic while ensuring robust
persistent connections and interactions with the necessary data.
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